Library not accepting requests for materials

Due to Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Stay at Home” order, Whitman County Library’s online catalog can no longer accept requests for materials. Library staff will mail the items that patrons have already requested through Wednesday, March 25. After that time, all non-essential staff will stay at home in compliance of the governor’s order.

Website services like downloadable eBooks and audio books will remain available from the library’s website, as will valuable electronic resources like Lynda.com, Mango Language Instruction, NewsBank Newspapers, Microsoft Coursework and more. In addition, the library has gathered a variety of website resources to assist the community during this difficult time. All are found under the “Library Resources” link in the left hand menu.

Whitman County Library is closing book drops countywide and asking residents to keep any materials they have checked out in their homes until the library re-opens. The decision was announced at the March 17 public board meeting where trustees practiced safe social distancing and addressed concerns related to the COVID-19 outbreak and public safety.

Top priority for the Board is protecting community members by keeping all 14 branch libraries closed until it is safe for them to reopen. The library serves patrons of all ages so elderly and high-risk patrons would be especially vulnerable in such a busy, public setting.

While library doors are closed, free Wi-Fi access surrounding the libraries remain available. Residents using this service should stay in their vehicles or practice social distancing if outside.

To access these resources or find the most current information, visit http://www.whitco.lib.wa.us where you’ll also find link to Whitman County Library’s Facebook, blog and newsletter.